Moving from Theoretical Knowledge to Flight Training
Once you have passed the theoretical knowledge exam with the aviation authorities, you can go to your chosen flight training provider and get on with the flying lessons.
Should you go for LAPL or PPL?
Flight training can lead to two types of private pilot licenses: the Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL) and the Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
The LAPL is a more restricted license than the PPL. It has fewer privileges and limitations on the types of aircraft that can be flown. However, the LAPL is also less demanding regarding training requirements and medical certification. None of the two can be used for commercial purposes.
The LAPL requires a Class 2 or LAPL medical certificate that is less strict than the Class 2 medical certificate required for the PPL.
The LAPL has certain limitations compared to the PPL. For instance, a holder of the LAPL cannot fly outside the European Union. In contrast, the PPL allows pilots to fly internationally, use their license with instructor or examiner privileges, and receive remuneration as such.
What are the training requirements?
To obtain a PPL, you must complete at least 45 hours of flight instruction, including 25 hours of dual flight instruction and 10 hours of supervised solo flight time. During this time, you should complete 5 hours of solo cross-country flight time, which includes one flight of at least 270 km (150 NM) and land at two different aerodromes. You can also spend 5 hours in a Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD).
On the other hand, to obtain a LAPL, you need to complete at least 30 hours of flight instruction on aeroplanes or Touring Motor Gliders (TMGs). This includes 15 hours of dual flight instruction and 6 hours of supervised solo flight time. During the solo flight time, you should complete 3 hours of solo cross-country flight time, including one flight of at least 150 km (80 NM) and land at an aerodrome different from the departure aerodrome.
Choosing your flight training provider
Here are some flight training providers that I can recommend. They are also authorized to hold official theoretical knowledge exams.
Listed in alphabetical order:
Theoretical Knowledge Course for the Private Pilot Licence
Start your journey to becoming a pilot with Skypilot Academy’s online Theoretical Knowledge Course for the Private Pilot Licence. At Skypilot Academy, we’re dedicated to training our students to become confident, safe and efficient pilots by providing in-depth theoretical knowledge training of the highest standard.
Learn more at Skypilot Academy